January 20th is Inauguration Day. Every four years this date marks the start of the United States president’s new term as they take the oath of office at noon. A peaceful transition of power from one U.S. president to the next, Inauguration Day also comes with a set of traditions and events celebrating the occasion. But what happens once the speeches and ball are done? Once the ceremonies conclude, it’s essential for citizens of all ages to understand the responsibilities of the President and their role in America’s system of government.
Using the videos, lesson plans, and book recommendations below learn about the office of the President, histories of past presidencies, and the foundations of our government. Then explore a curated list of activities and interactives that encourage kids of all ages to be civic change makers.
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Learn About the Role & Responsibilities of Presidents
Picture Books About Presidents and Voting
Grades PreK-4
How are you and your kids recognizing Presidents Day? From “Duck for President” to “George Vs. George,” explore PBS KIDS for Parents book recommendations about the history of our presidents and system of government!
The U.S. Presidency collection
Grades K-12
Explore the rich history and the institution of the U.S. Presidency—from George Washington to Barack Obama. Understand the duties and powers of the President of the United States and the First Lady, gather important background information with our Presidential biographies, and engage with videos and primary sources that place you back in time at some of the most pivotal turning points in American history.
The Power of the President | Politics on Point
Grades 6-8
Learn what the President of the United States has the power to do. The basics of this role are spelled out in the U.S. Constitution.
The 7 Roles of the U.S. President | On the Campaign Trail
Grades 6-12
In this episode of On the Campaign Trail, learn about the seven main roles of the United States president and the responsibilities attached to each one.
Changes to the Office of the President | The Constitution EXPLAINED
Grades 6-12
Learn about the 20th, 22nd, and 25th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution, which changed the office of the president in this video from iCivics and the Center for Civic Education. The 20th Amendment made changes to the date on which a president assumes office, the 22nd Amendment imposed two four-year term limits on the presidency, and the 25th Amendment outlined presidential succession and what happens if a president cannot assume their duties.
Talking to Kids About Civics & Politics
How to Talk to Children About Politics
Grades PreK-5
Talking to children about voting, politics, and civic engagement can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips on how to help kids understand how to be participants in creating positive change.
Voting & Democracy collection | Above the Noise
Grades 6-12
These videos from Above the Noise dive into debates over policy and the role of government in our lives. Above the Noise takes viewers along for the journey as host Myles Bess cuts through the hype surrounding controversial topics in the news to find out what’s really going on. Each video comes with supports for middle and high school classrooms, including a lesson plan, viewing guide, and sentence frames for diverse learners that encourage student voice and foster civil conversation about complex topics.
Inside the Workshops: Teaching Friends, Neighbors & Political Foes to Compromise | A Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Democracy
Grades 6-12
Compromise is key to democracy! Explore how finding common ground strengthens self-government and helps solve problems in a democratic society with this video from A Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Democracy.
Activities, Interactives & More
Letter to the President
Grades K-3
What would you like the President to know? Write a letter to the President of the United States of America with this worksheet from PBS KIDS for Parents.
The Three Branches of Government | Interactive Lesson
Grades 3-8
In this interactive lesson supporting literacy skills in U.S. history, students learn about the three branches of the United States government. Students explore the powers that the Constitution assigns to each branch—legislative, executive, and judicial—and how the three branches work together. During this process, they read informational text, learn and practice vocabulary words, and explore content through videos and engagement activities.
The Great Debates | 60-Second Presidents
Grades 3-12
Learn the role that presidents have played in shaping the nation’s “Great Debates” in this research and writing activity from 60-Second Presidents. Students will research the power that the executive branch has in determining America’s place in foreign affairs and write an essay in which they present their informed opinion on this topic.
Should We Have a President? | America From Scratch
Grades 6-12
We spend a lot of time thinking, worrying, debating—and, yes, fighting—over who should be our president. But is that the best use of our political energy? In this episode of America From Scratch, we explore the idea of eliminating the presidency entirely—and some other alternatives to our current political structure. Experts share how you can make the biggest difference in government today, regardless of how the political pendulum is swinging. Using the associated Support Materials, students will brainstorm and evaluate if a president is the best way to handle executive power or if there are other systems that would be better.
Civic Engagement and Student Involvement: Lesson Plan | PBS NewsHour
Grades 6-12
Civic engagement is a way for any individual to help accomplish major political or social change. In this lesson, students will not only learn the importance of civic participation, but also the tools that allow individuals to engage in the political process.